Response: Huawei unveils the world’s tiniest Atom Router

This press release from Huawei really grabbed my attention because it’s an MPLS enabled router that is finger sized and built for carrier networks.

Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, today unveiled at the Mobile World Congress 2014 (MWC 2014) the world’s tiniest carrier-grade router — Atom Router. The finger-sized router allows visualized IP network O&M(Operation and Maintenance), real-time measurement of per-user and per-service performance, and delivery of more value-added services. The router can easily be deployed on any network nodes without the need for network reconstruction. This innovative router, targeted at increasing customer value, demonstrates Huawei’s competitiveness in the IP field.

Details are limited but it looks like this is an “SFP mounted” device which uses any SFP port to provide power and connectivity.

The highly-integrated router runs the advanced software platform, employs photoelectric and NP chip technologies, and adopts industry-leading processing techniques. The Atom Router works immediately after being plugged into a service port of a device on an existing network, such as a base station, router, or switch, without the need for extra power supply or site resources, enabling cost-effective deployment.

Without more information I’ll be somewhat cynical but this could be a truly disruptive product in the service provider market. Consider a full MPLS enabled router connected to a low cost Ethernet switch SFP port and how that would change customer connectivity. Instead of using a large (and expensive) router you could replace with a low cost switch for connectivity and power.

Delicious. And the only thing to come out of MWC this year. Glad i didn’t go.